"How To’s” on
Purchasing a Ramp
by Steve Gildersleeve
Do you need a ramp? Do you need to replace an existing ramp? Before
you make that purchase, use these tips and questions below as a backdrop
in your discussions with the different dealers and contractors.
First, you must decide on which type of ramp to choose from. You
have four main choices: a portable platform or suitcase ramp, a modular
aluminum ramp, a modular steel ramp, or a wooden ramp.
When considering which type of ramp, keep in mind the following
four questions:
What is the “rise” of
the ramp?
To figure the “rise,” you
need to measure the distance between the entry level and the ground.
Using the standard ADA rule of thumb, which is one inch of rise
per foot of run, the number of inches from door to ground equals
the length of the ramp in feet, you may find that with some power
chairs and scooters, you could increase the slope of the ramp.
But be careful you should let safety and ease determine the length
of your ramp, not price.
In most cities, you
will need a building permit, and potentially an inspection and
reevaluation for ramps that approach a certain size (over 30" of
rise and/or 400 sq. ft, for example).
If you need less than
10 feet of ramp, a standard-sized portable or platform ramp might
be the least expensive, but don’t sacrifice
safety just to get it cheap. The portable or platform types of ramps
become too steep and dangerous if you need more than 10 feet of ramp.
Do you need an outdoor or indoor ramp?
Certain ramp surfaces get slippery when wet. Others allow ice to
form and snow to build up on the surface. Even though each type of
ramp material claims it has features to improve traction, certain
ramp materials deal with rain and snow more effectively.
Also, make sure to look
into the types of support and footings for the various ramps. You
want a ramp that won’t sink into the
ground over time. A rectangular base the width of the ramp is much
better than a single post on a brick.
What do you want the ramp to look like?
Steel ramps end up looking much like the black, metal porch and
stair railings many houses already have. Aluminum ramps are bright
and modern looking. Wooden ramps blend in nicely with some architectural
styles.
What time of year is it when
you need to construct the ramp?
In winter and spring,
your choices of ramps are more limited than during the summer and
fall. Some types of ramps may require concrete footings, making
it costly to sink a footing in frozen ground. Certain dealers don’t
install ramps in the cold weather.
The next important step in purchasing a ramp is where to get your
ramp. You have three main choices: medical equipment supply firms,
a building contractor, or a company that specializes in designing
and building ramps. Who you choose depends on four factors:
How quickly do you need
the ramp?
Certain ramp providers can
install a ramp within a couple days of your initial call. Others
operate on much longer time frames. If your need is urgent, be sure
to get installation deadlines in writing.
How long will you need the
ramp?
If you expect the need to be permanent, any source might work. If
you just want the ramp for a day, a few weeks, or a few months, your
choices are more limited. You can ask the organizations you call
if they rent ramps for short-term needs.
Also, don’t forget
to consider what happens when the ramp is no longer needed or if
you move. Wooden and concrete ramps require the most money and
time to remove and leaving them in place may make the home more
difficult to sell. Modular aluminum and steel ramps are easy to
move to a new home and you can add or subtract parts to fit the
new situation.
How much of the design and
construction work can you, your family, or friends do?
If you know people who will help design and build your ramp, you
can certainly save money. Some local grant-supported organizations
offer advice on building wooden ramps, and you can order other types
of ramps over the Internet.
What’s your budget?
If you can get someone to donate the time and/or the materials,
it might cut your costs and help you make a decision. If not, get
firm quotes and specific drawings from several sources that have
good references and then make your decision based on the total package.
The price of ramps range anywhere from $55 to $120 per foot of ramp.
Make sure labor, freight, materials, and sales tax are all included
in each quote.
Once you research the information provided above, you can make a
clear decision on the many choices for constructing a ramp. You can
also consult some of the resources listed below:
• Call United Way
211’s
referral service. Dial 2-1-1 or 800-543-7709.
• Call the Metro
Center for Independent Living Ramp Project 651-646-8342.
• Call
the Senior Linkage Line at 800-333-2433.
• Visit www.directability.com for resources.
• Conduct your
own Internet search. Try www.google.com.
• Contact your
favorite contractor or handyman service.
• Consult the Yellow
Pages under Medical Equipment and Supplies.
• Ask your therapist,
or your social worker or case manager for suggestions.
